Inkaras face extinction

One of Lithuania's most historic clubs, FK Inkaras are on the brink of extinction. The club have no money to pay wages and most of their squad have left.

Unpaid wages
Just ten players are officially on the club's books at present, and they are refusing to train due to unpaid wages. All ten are currently on trial with another A Lyga side, FK Atlantas, while coach Igoris Pankratjevas is also negotiating with the Klaipeda side.

Critical situation
"The situation is critical," said Inkaras director Kastytis Klimas. "We are using every means we have at our disposal to save this football club." Meanwhile, Lithuanian Football Federation general director Julius Kvedaras, who played for and coached the club for several years, said: "I know the situation in Inkaras very well. I am afraid this club will cease to exist."

Seven-time champions
Inkaras were founded in 1937, and have won the Lithuanian league seven times, most recently in 1996, as well as seven Lithuanian Cups. Despite their financial difficulties, Inkaras still finished fifth last season and are in the Lithuanian Cup semi-finals, where, ironically, they are due to face Atlantas this spring.